February 27, 2026

Dear Kids Health First (KHF) Providers and Practice Administrators,

We have some important updates about payor updates, new programs, and upcoming events. There's a lot of information, and we want to keep you informed. Please read through this email carefully and let us know if you have any questions.

Important Updates

Updated Kids Health First Practice Administrator Peer Contact List

We’ve shared an updated Practice Administrator (PA) peer contact list to help administrators connect directly with colleagues across Kids Health First. This resource is designed to support collaboration and peer-to-peer questions, including topics like Medicaid processes, workflows, and navigating different PM/EMR systems.

If you have updates or corrections to your contact information, please send them to dscowden@khfirst.com so we can keep the list current.

View the KHF Practice Administrator Contact list.

VFC Update: February Newsletter Highlights

The latest Vaccines for Children (VFC) eBlast includes several important operational and clinical updates for participating practices.

Temporary change to vaccine shipment monitors

Beginning February 23, McKesson has temporarily switched from electronic TagAlert monitors to chemical temperature monitors in refrigerated vaccine shipments due to a supply shortage. This change is expected to continue through mid- to late April. Refrigerated shipments will also use EcoFlex coolers designed for improved temperature stability.

Immunize Georgia Conference and awards

Registration is now open for the Immunize Georgia Virtual Conference on April 24, 2026. Nominations are also open for the Walt Orenstein Champions for Immunization Award and the Clay Coleman Excellence in Customer Service Award.

Measles reminder and resources

VFC also shared a reminder that measles cases are increasing nationally and in neighboring states. Practices are encouraged to review the latest Georgia DPH health alerts and available clinical resources.

Additional highlights include updated maternal immunization guidance and tools like VaxRef to help translate immunization records.

View the Newsletter.

HR Q&A: Can You Deny a Vacation Request? (From Vxtra)

A recent HR Q&A from Vxtra addresses a common question from practices: Can employers deny vacation requests?

The short answer is yes — but only when there is a legitimate business reason. Examples may include insufficient staffing coverage or requests submitted without enough notice based on your policy. Denials that feel arbitrary (such as prior recent time off) can negatively impact morale and fairness.

If a request must be denied, Vxtra recommends clearly documenting the business reason and working with the employee to identify an alternative time off. Additionally, if the request is tied to a medical need, practices should evaluate applicable leave or accommodation laws before making a decision.

As always, practices should consult HR or legal guidance when navigating complex leave situations.

Learn more here.

Reminder: Sanofi Webinar: Coding, Coverage, and Reimbursement for Vaccines

Sanofi is hosting a live webinar series covering coding, coverage, and reimbursement for vaccines and immunizations. This 60-minute session will review the reimbursement landscape and provide practical guidance to support accurate coding and billing.

Topics include: